The Adventist church in Koh Dach, Cambodia, witnessed a remarkable Sabbath on June 26 when twenty individuals embraced God's calling and were baptized into His family.
Following a divine service led by Pastor Mamerto Guingguing in which the Word of God reverberated profoundly in the hearts of the congregation, anticipation grew for the Mekong River baptismal service.
Under the direction of Pastor Hang Dara, president of the Adventist Church in Cambodia, Pastor Mamerto Guingguing, Associate Executive Secretary and Human Resource director of the Southern Asia-Pacific region, and Pastor Tran Quoc Khoi, director of the Youth Department of the Adventist church in Southeastern Asia region, the stage was set for a moment that would forever alter the lives of these twenty precious souls.
Pastor Hang Dara smiled as he remarked, "This is a marvelous day for our church family as we witness the transformation and rebirth of these individuals who have answered God's call to become part of His eternal covenant."
It is the first time in 2023 that the church celebrates such an overwhelming response to the Gospel at Phnom Penh North. Under the leadership of Pastor Noeum Vannak and his devoted team, the church conducted six months of evangelism activities, visiting the community and conducting impactful Bible studies..
Pr. Noeum Vannak and his team have resumed their plans and operations for the dissemination of the gospel following the conclusion of this baptismal celebration. They intend to cultivate an environment conducive to learning and spiritual development by introducing computer classes, English classes, and music classes to stimulate the interest of those who wish to delve more deeply into the teachings of the Bible.
In addition, the church has initiated a community service program that seeks to bridge the gap between the church and the community by assisting those in need. This outreach endeavor demonstrates the church's dedication to embodying Christ's compassionate teachings.
Phnom Penh North is planning to conduct another baptism ceremony at the end of 2023, catering to those who are diligently studying the Scriptures and yearning to embrace their faith.
Cambodia is located in the center of Southeast Asia, a region where a multitude of diverse cultures combine to create a delightful blend of diversity. Cambodia, situated in the 10/40 window, is a predominantly Buddhist nation, with more than 97% of the population practicing Buddhism. According to the membership-to-population ratio statistics for 2021, there are 4,241 people for every Adventist in Cambodia. The opportunity to share Jesus with the least reached communities in Southern Asia-Pacific presents a formidable challenge. However, hearing conversion stories from the field, particularly from people living in the least reached areas, encourages and provides hope that many people are still seeking for Jesus.
The Koh Dach church stood united and energized by the presence of twenty new members who had begun a journey of spiritual awakening and revitalization. The reverberations of their baptism have now reached far beyond the Mekong River, inspiring others to pursue God's love and grace.
The Mekong River witnessed not only baptism but also a profound affirmation of faith, as twenty individuals embarked on a lifelong journey with God, prepared to embrace His teachings and share His love with the world.
Cambodia Adventist Mission